By Efe Onodjae
The Nigerian Correctional Service, Lagos State Command, has called for affordable, quality and confidential mental healthcare for young Nigerians, urging stakeholders to strengthen access to services and tackle the stigma associated with mental illness.
The Controller of Corrections, Lagos State Command, Daramola George, made the call in a goodwill message delivered by the Deputy Controller of Corrections, Ajayi Francis, at the 4th Vanguard Mental Health Summit held in Lagos.
The summit, organised by Vanguard Media Limited, had the theme, “Advancing Youth Mental Health in Nigeria through Access, Action and Advocacy,” with discussions focusing on the impact of social media, technology and digital wellbeing.
George described mental health as fundamental to human wellbeing, productivity and national development, noting that young people needed adequate support to learn, work, innovate and contribute meaningfully to society.
He said neglecting mental health challenges could have far-reaching consequences for individuals, families, communities and the country.
The controller stressed the need for collective action involving government, healthcare professionals, parents, schools, religious institutions, businesses, civil society organisations, technology companies and the media.
He called for stronger mental health services at the primary healthcare level, expanded community-based support and the responsible use of digital platforms to provide counselling and other mental health services.
According to him, access to care should not be determined by a person’s income or geographical location, adding that young Nigerians needed affordable and confidential services that met appropriate professional standards.
On the impact of social media, George said digital platforms offered opportunities for learning, creativity, peer support and mental health awareness but could also expose young people to cyberbullying, online harassment, misinformation and harmful content.
He, therefore, advocated digital literacy and healthy online habits, alongside efforts to create safer online spaces where young people could share their experiences without fear of discrimination or judgment.
The controller also called for an end to stigma and misconceptions surrounding mental illness, stressing that seeking professional help should be recognised as a responsible step rather than a sign of weakness.
He urged media organisations, influencers, content creators, technology companies and public institutions to promote accurate and sensitive mental health information.
George further called for young people to be actively involved in developing policies and programmes designed to address their challenges, noting that their experiences with social media, education, employment and relationships should inform interventions aimed at improving their wellbeing.
He urged participants at the summit to translate discussions into concrete policies and measurable actions, stressing that sustained collaboration was necessary to build a society where young Nigerians could access mental healthcare and receive the support needed to fulfil their potential.
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